Understanding Running Paces: What's a Good Pace for You?

The beauty of running lies in its unique ability to bring individuals together, despite their varying levels of experience and fitness goals. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, the journey is just as important as the destination.

For those just starting out, the average finishing time for a 5k run can range from 30-45 minutes, with a combination of running and walking being a common approach to build up endurance. As runners progress and become more seasoned, their average finishing times decrease, with experienced club runners typically recording times between 20-25 minutes. Elite runners may even clock in at under 17 minutes for the same distance.

What constitutes a good run pace for a new runner is vastly different from that of an experienced club runner. It's essential to remember that there are numerous factors at play when it comes to running, including fatigue, terrain, and weather conditions. Additionally, age, sex, experience, and other factors can significantly impact an individual's pace.

In reality, there is no such thing as a 'good' pace unless one is striving to qualify for the Olympics. Instead of focusing on pace, many runners find it more beneficial to set specific goals, such as breaking a sub-20-minute 5k or completing a 4-hour marathon.

Before we dive into the world of running paces, let's address two common concerns: converting between miles and kilometres, and understanding how to compare paces across different terrain. Our running pace conversion chart is here to help you navigate these challenges and take your running journey to the next level.

1.7 km to miles